Little Learners

Inspection of Little Learners Vigo Parish Council, Village Hall, The Bay, Vigo, Gravesend DA13 0TD

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Overall effectiveness Good

The quality of education Good Behaviour and attitudes Good Personal development Good Leadership and management Good Overall effectiveness at previous inspection Inadequate

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The provision is good

Children arrive happy and full of enthusiasm for their day in this inviting and inclusive setting. They confidently part from their parents as they are welcomed by friendly staff who provide an environment that captivates and motivates them. For example, children demonstrate good levels of engagement in activities such as, throwing balls at targets, constructing towers with blocks, and investigating various sensory and craft materials. They show they feel safe and secure, actively seeking assistance from staff when they require comfort, reassurance, or support. Children are proud when staff praise their good behaviour and acts of kindness towards others.

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The provision is good

Staff provide children with an exciting and ambitious curriculum. They have a secure understanding of child development and recognise the skills they need to prioritise to help children prepare for their transition to school. For instance, the current focus is on personal, social and emotional development and communication and language skills. Children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are well supported. There is a collaborative approach from parents, staff and outside agencies to ensure all children are making at least good levels of progress.

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The provision is good

All children benefit from opportunities to develop their physical skills. Babies pull themselves to standing, and strengthen their gross motor skills in preparation for walking. Older children show confidence on the climbing apparatus and take safe risks as they learn to navigate the stepping stones, and how to balance their bodies.

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need to do better?

n The provider has been reflective and proactive since the previous inspection to ensure compliance with all requirements. There are strong procedures in place to ensure the suitability of all staff. Additionally, staff members receive regular and effective one-on-one meetings to address any necessary support and training opportunities. Staff are happy and feel well supported to progress and develop in their roles. n Staff swiftly identify when children need further support in their learning or development. They work in close partnership with parents and other health professionals, to devise strategies and review children's individual plans. The provider effectively uses additional funding to provide further opportunities for children such as, resources for small group and one-to-one sessions. n In general, children behave typically for their age. Older children share and take turns without adult support, and younger children learn how to play

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need to do better?

cooperatively with their peers. However, at times, staff do not manage children's

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need to do better?

9 July 2025 behaviour consistently. As a result, children do not always understand what is expected of them, and why their behaviour may not be appropriate. n The key-person system is secure. Children forge close relationships with their key person and often seek them out to join in their play or for a reassuring cuddle. Staff respond well to children's routines. For example, they know when babies are tired and need a sleep and adjust the routines accordingly. This has a positive impact on children's well-being. n Staff recognise the importance of developing children's communication and language. They engage children in meaningful conversations and value what they say. Staff are skilled at leaving gaps to allow children the thinking time they need to formulate a response. Staff understand the importance of singing and reading to children. For instance, when staff sing familiar songs to babies they clap their hands, move their bodies in response and babble along to the words.

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need to do better?

n Mathematics is thoughtfully woven into daily activities. Children are introduced to numbers through engaging songs, and staff modelling numbers as they play. Children also explore mathematical concepts such as, shape and size when building. Children develop a positive attitude towards early mathematics. n The setting is an important part of the local community. Children enjoy regular visits to the library, parks and local cafés. Furthermore, children and elderly residents enjoy mutually beneficial relationships through the community 'pop up café,' that supports children to understand about different generations, life experiences and the world in which they live. n The provider and staff work hard to develop positive relationships with parents. Parents views are sought through questionnaires and regular conversations which are discussed and evaluated by the staff team to drive forward improvements. Parents speak highly of the setting; they value the support from

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need to do better?

the kind and knowledgeable staff team and praise the progress their children are making.

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Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.

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Safeguarding

There is an open and positive culture around safeguarding that puts children's interests first.

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should:

n support staff to have a clear understanding of the behaviour management strategies in place so that they are consistently implemented across the whole setting.

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Setting details

Unique reference number 2723679 Local authority Kent Inspection number 10411789 Type of provision Childcare on non-domestic premises Registers Early Years Register Day care type Sessional day care

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inspection

Total number of places 40 Number of children on roll 51 Name of registered person Spalding, Joanne

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reference number

Telephone number 07854744689 Date of previous inspection 28 February 2025

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Information about this early years setting

Little Learners registered in 2023 and is situated in Vigo Village Hall, Gravesend, Kent. The setting is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 3pm, term time only. There are 11 members of staff, eight of whom hold childcare qualifications at level 2 and above. The provider receives funding to provide free early education for children aged nine months to four years.

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Inspection activities

n The manager and inspector completed a learning walk together of all areas of the setting and discussed the early years curriculum. n Children spoke with the inspector during the inspection. n The inspector talked to staff at appropriate times during the inspection and took account of their views. n The inspector spoke with the nominated individual about the leadership and management of the setting. n The inspector observed the quality of education being provided, indoors and outdoors, and assessed the impact that this was having on children's learning. n The inspector spoke to several parents during the inspection and took account of their views. n The inspector looked at relevant documentation and reviewed evidence of the suitability of staff working in the setting.

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Inspection activities

We carried out this inspection under sections 49 and 50 of the Childcare Act 2006 on the quality and standards of provision that is registered on the Early Years Register. The registered person must ensure that this provision complies with the statutory framework for children's learning, development and care, known as the early years foundation stage.

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Inspection activities

9 July 2025 regulates and inspects to achieve excellence in the care of children and young people, and in education and skills for learners of all ages. It regulates and inspects childcare and children's social care, and inspects the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (Cafcass), schools, colleges, initial teacher training, further education and skills, adult and community learning, and education and training in prisons and other secure establishments. It assesses council children's services, and inspects services for looked after children, safeguarding and child protection.

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Inspection activities

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Inspection activities

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Inspection activities

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Inspection activities

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